Paula Cole, a prominent figure from the iconic Lilith Fair, has expressed her excitement about the resurgence of women-led music festivals through Olivia Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields Festival. In an interview with PEOPLE, Cole shared her enthusiasm for the event, which is dedicated to showcasing an all-female line-up, describing it as a rewarding initiative that aligns closely with the spirit of Lilith Fair.
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The Daisy Chain Fields Festival, scheduled for 29 August 2026, in Irvine, California, is not only a platform for female performers and groups, but it also aims to support numerous charitable organisations that advocate for women and girls. Among the beneficiaries are Planned Parenthood and the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health, highlighting the festival’s commitment to social issues alongside its musical celebration.
Cole, who played a crucial role in the original Lilith Fair founded by Sarah McLachlan in 1997, remarked on how necessary it is for women in music to have such platforms. The original festival challenged prevailing misconceptions about the profitability of female artists and brought together a remarkable line-up, featuring stars like Bonnie Raitt, Sheryl Crow, and Erykah Badu. The festival was a trailblazer in establishing visibility for women in the music industry, grossing millions over its run until 1999, with a brief revival in 2010.
Recently, Cole had a chance to reconnect with McLachlan during a performance in Boston where they reflected on the upcoming festival. “We were both thrilled about its existence and how it pays homage to what we started,” Cole said, adding that Stevie Nicks will also perform, and tickets sold out rapidly. “It shows you, as Patti Smith says, the people have the power. If you ignore the patriarchal nonsense and take action, it’s possible to create change.”
Cole’s words underscore the festival’s essence, empowering women to assert themselves and create opportunities within the music landscape. She highlighted how the festival can inspire courage among female artists, enabling them to collaborate and support each other in a challenging industry. “It’s about realising that you have power and can uplift others. You don’t need to tour alone; you can create a festival that fosters awareness, education, and charity.”
The renowned singer-songwriter encapsulated the festival’s inclusive approach, emphasising its multi-generational nature. “It’s spanning across different demographics and genres, akin to what Sarah McLachlan envisioned. It’s vital and very much needed now,” she stated, reinforcing how this event not only elevates women but also celebrates their diverse contributions to music.
In addition to her support for the festival, Cole is set to release an archival collection titled Sonic Memoir: Demos 1989-1998 in September, showcasing her enduring legacy in the music industry. This release further connects her past with the present, all while supporting initiatives like the Daisy Chain Fields Festival that inspire future generations of women musicians.
The revival of such festivals signifies a promising shift in the music landscape, reaffirming that female artists deserve equal opportunities to shine. With Olivia Rodrigo’s leadership, the Daisy Chain Fields Festival seeks to create waves of change, harkening back to the foundations laid by Lilith Fair and propelling them into the future. As Cole aptly puts it, “It’s exponential, like waves of courage.” The energy surrounding this festival promises to be transformative for the industry and beyond, igniting a renewed sense of community and empowerment for women artists everywhere.